The Great War tore apart families across Europe; people sacrificed for what they believed in, both on the front and at home. The Guardians is the story of the Sandrail women of Paridier farm, France. Headed by Hortense (Nathalie Baye), her daughters, and supported by skilful teenage orphan Francine (Iris Bry), the daily toil of running the farm, both physical and emotional, must be worked through without cessation – what the men have gone to fight for must still be there upon their return. Director Xavier Beauvois’ vivid, moving tale isn’t one to be missed.

An unfortunate turn of events presents Edith “Edie” Moore (Sheila Hancock) with the opportunity to embark on the adventure of a lifetime: climb the oddly-shaped, barely accessible Scottish mountain that she and her late father only ever dreamt of climbing. However, being a mere 83 years young means Edie’s ascension to the summit is a meaner feat than for most. Director Simon Hunter’s film features a vibrant, lively central performance set perfectly against the awesome, blooming Scottish Highlands. One for adventurers and aspiring adventurers alike!

Extremely shy Lars (Ryan Gosling) finds it impossible to make friends or socialize. His brother (Paul Schneider) and sister-in-law (Emily Mortimer) worry about him, so when he announces that he has a girlfriend he met on the Internet, they are overjoyed. But Lars’ new lady is a life-size plastic woman. On the advice of a doctor (Patricia Clarkson), his family and the rest of the community go along with his delusion. A touching comedy drama gleefully portraying a community’s capacity for acceptance.